7 - Dorian Paul Rogers

The Poetryhood | الحيّ الشعري

Dorian Paul Rogers is a performance poet, Hip Hop artist, educator, and events curator. He is the founder of Rooftop Rhythms, a monthly open mic which has gone on to become one of the biggest events of its kind in the UAE and surrounding region.

In this episode, we question the role of the mediator in relation to that of the artist. We talk about Dorian’s most recent poetry collection and adult coloring book, The Million Mile Stare, which gives voice to the childhood trauma he experienced growing up as a bi-racial child in the United States.

As long time friends who have worked together many times before, Dorian and I (Farah Chamma) share personal experiences and reflect on how our poetry has changed and evolved over the years. We explore the many questions of vulnerability, self-doubt, and pain as well as how creativity and self-expression contribute to the process of healing.

Dorian also tells us about THER.I.P.Y., the the Hip Hop group he co-founded along with his late rap partner, Kendall “Ken Jo” Johnson, may his soul rest in peace. His most recent solo EP, Burn B4 Listening, is a way to carry on his dear friend’s legacy.

Referral Links:

The Million Mile Stare Poetry Collection and Adult Coloring Book
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08TZ3HYRS?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860

Rooftop Rhythms Instagram: @rooftop_rhythms

Dorian's Personal Instagram: @pauldtheripy

Burn B4 Listening EP
https://music.apple.com/ae/album/burn-b4-listening-ep/1533550214

180 Degrees
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLRP9iPVOrI

Happy Poetry Listening!